The Story Behind the Song 's Peter Csathy is back to talk to legendary The Police drummer Stewart Copeland to talk about "Roxanne." Definitely known as "The Police Song," "Roxanne" is a song that changed the fortunes of the English rock band The Police . The song was written by lead singer and bassist Sting for their debut album Outlandos d'Amour , which celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. But it would not have found its rhythmic magic if Stewart Copeland hadn't reenvisioned the song's bo...
Jul 28, 2025•54 min
This week, host Peter Chatty welcomes Salt-N-Pepa's Cheryl "Salt" James to The Story Behind the Song to break down their groundbreaking 1990 track "Let's Talk About Sex." Discover the song's provocative origins, designed with producer Hurby "Luv Bug" Azor to challenge radio censorship. Salt reveals how the track, meant to spark a necessary dialogue, was later transformed at the request of news anchor Peter Jennings into the powerful PSA "Let's Talk About AIDS." The conversation also explores Sal...
Jul 21, 2025•42 min•Season 4Ep. 8
Blondie are, without question, one of the most successful, iconic, and influential bands in rock and roll history. On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , listen to the band talk about their song "Rapture" and more. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 15 years ago, the Debbie Harry -fronted group has sold over 40 million albums worldwide and continues to release new music. But the “rock and roll” label doesn’t do justice to the group’s genre-bending music. What started a...
Jul 14, 2025•45 min
This week on The Story Behind the Song , host Peter Csathy welcomes Sublime drummer Bud Gaugh to dive into the story behind their classic 1997 track "Wrong Way." Discover the song's spontaneous, beer-fueled origins at Willie Nelson's Texas studio. Gaugh reveals how a casual conversation was transformed overnight by frontman Bradley Nowell into the iconic lyrics, and how the track was captured in just two takes—with the trombone player famously getting paid with a watch. The conversation also exp...
Jul 07, 2025•47 min•Season 4Ep. 7
Don McLean earned the title of America's Troubadour with his iconic 1971 hit song "American Pie." This eight-and-a-half-minute folk rock track is considered a cultural touchstone in the annals of Americana, tracking the loss of innocence of the early rock and roll generation through oft-debated reference-rich lyrics about "the day the music died." Listen now. On this episode of The Story Behind the Song , McLean joins host Peter Csathy to talk about how it took 10 years to write "American Pie," ...
Jun 30, 2025•44 min
This week on The Story Behind the Song , host Peter Chatty welcomes the legendary Susanna Hoffs, singer, songwriter, and guitarist of the iconic 80s band, The Bangles. Hoffs takes us on a fascinating journey behind one of The Bangles' biggest hits, the 1989 power ballad, "Eternal Flame." Discover the surprising inspiration behind "Eternal Flame"—a pilgrimage to Elvis's Graceland, where The King's "eternal flame" was, ironically, extinguished. Hoffs shares how this serendipitous moment, combined ...
Jun 23, 2025•51 min•Season 4Ep. 6
On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , The Killers frontman Brandon Flowers reflects on one of the band's earliest songs -- "All These Things That I've Done." Listen to Flowers' insight into the tune. Flowers chats about the song's spiritual meaning, explaining how it grapples with themes of guilt, faith, and forgiveness. Ultimately, it's the sonic representation of Flowers' struggle to balance his Mormon beliefs and his pursuit of rock 'n' roll. He then touches on the cut's influ...
Jun 16, 2025•38 min
The Queen of Disco herself, Gloria Gaynor , joins host Peter Csathy on The Story Behind the Song to explore her iconic, universal anthem "I Will Survive." Listen to Gaynor discuss her signature song. Released in 1978, "I Will Survive" was recorded while Gaynor was recovering from a paralyzing fall, and she recounts how her own situation allowed her to inject pure emotion into the recording. The conversation delves into how she gave the track a strategic debut at Studio 54, and traces Gaynor's re...
Jun 09, 2025•40 min•Season 4Ep. 5
On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , we revisit a conversation with Gerald Casale of Devo about the band’s seminal 1980 single “Whip It.” Released as the second single off Devo’s Freedom of Choice, “Whip It” remains instantly recognizable with its hooky synthesizer lines, over-the-top vocal delivery, and overall silly tone. While it quickly became an anthem of fun, the tune was originally expected to flop. Devo’s left-field creativity proved to be too out-there for their label, ...
Jun 02, 2025•49 min
Co-founder, singer, keyboardist, and songwriter Mark Mothersbaugh of Devo joins host Peter Chatty on The Story Behind the Song to explore the iconic "Girl U Want" from Freedom of Choice . Peter welcomes Mark to discuss the bouncing and boisterous track, its unique inspirations from a Glasgow pamphlet and The Knack's "My Sharona," and its enduring legacy as a quintessential Devo classic that continues to define their de-evolutionary message. Released in 1980 on Devo's third album, Freedom of Choi...
May 26, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 4Ep. 4
On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , we revisit a conversation with Graham Russell of the Australian super duo Air Supply to discuss their smash hit “All Out of Love." Air Supply's own Graham Russell joins host Peter Csathy to talk about how “All Out of Love” came together and how Clive Davis' input made the song an international success. He also talks about how he met Russell Hitchcock in the cast of Jesus Christ Superstar, how they became more famous, and their impact on popul...
May 19, 2025•44 min
Lead singer and songwriter Adam Duritz of Counting Crows joins host Peter Csathy on The Story Behind the Song , to explore the iconic "A Long December" from Recovering the Satellites . Peter welcomes Adam to discuss the deeply emotional and moving song, its spontaneous creation in under 24 hours, and its enduring legacy as a fan favorite that continues to resonate decades later. Released in 1996 on Counting Crows' second album, "A Long December" captured a unique moment, and the band is now prep...
May 12, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 3
On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , we revisit the incredible music of Heart. Just last week, we brought you Nancy Wilson's insights into their powerful track "Barracuda." Now, we journey back to an earlier conversation with Nancy, exploring Heart's breakout classic from their early years: "Crazy on You." This iconic song, arguably their masterpiece, helped solidify Heart as the rock institution they undeniably are – an absolute powerhouse of guitars, drums, bass, and unmistaka...
May 05, 2025•53 min
Guitar legend Nancy Wilson of Heart joins host Peter Csathy for her second appearance on The Story Behind the Song , this time to explore the iconic "Barracuda" from Little Queen . Following their previous engaging conversation about "Crazy On You," Peter welcomes back Nancy to discuss the powerful guitar licks and signature riff that define this classic track. Released in 1977 on Heart's third album, "Barracuda" roared onto the scene and continues to be a fan favorite as Nancy and her sister An...
Apr 28, 2025•37 min•Season 4Ep. 2
On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song, revisit one of the most unexpected and authentic indie bands of the early 80s -- Violent Femmes. Breaking out big in 1983 with a unique sound and a hit-packed debut album, the Femmes created truly timeless jams, none more ubiquitous than "Blister in the Sun." The proto-folk-punk tune still makes people dance and sing along decades later. Host Peter Csathy revisits his conversation from two years ago with the "wonderfully wacky" vocalist Gordon...
Apr 21, 2025•57 min
The Story Behind the Song returns for Season 4 to dive deep with legendary guitarist Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers who joins host Peter Chatty to explore the iconic song "Refugee" from Damn The Torpedoes . Mike discusses his musical beginnings in Florida, from early rock influences to forming Mud Crutch with Tom Petty. He recounts the journey leading to the creation of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, a Hall of Fame band. The guitarist reveals the unexpected origin of "Refugee...
Apr 14, 2025•45 min•Season 4Ep. 1
The Story Behind the Song returns to dive deep into some of music history’s most iconic tracks with the legends who made them. Host Peter Csathy sits down with the likes of Heart’s Nancy Wilson, Tom Petty and the Heartbreaker’s Mike Campbell, DEVO’s Mark Mothersbaugh, Sublime’s Bud Gaugh, Counting Crows’ Adam Duritz, and more for a fresh batch of episodes. From the spark of inspiration to untold tales from the studio, SBTS Season 4 will unlock the true stories that shaped the music you love. Wit...
Apr 10, 2025•59 sec
On the season finale (and encore episode) of The Story Behind the Song , hear Rick Astley discuss his classic "Never Gonna Give You Up" and more. Rick Astley burst onto the pop scene 1987 seemingly out of nowhere when his debut single -- the feel-good, earnest dance anthem “Never Gonna Give You Up” -- grabbed the No. 1 spot in 25 countries. In just a matter of weeks, Astley traded his small town outside of Manchester, England for center stage on a global scale. As fate would have it, "Never Gonn...
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr 6 min
On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , listen to Garbage 's Shirley Manson discuss "Only Happy When It Rains," her origins with Garbage, and more. Manson first met up with her three future bandmates in Wisconsin as a result of one of those strange, classic twists of rock and roll fate involving MTV, a phone call, and a disastrous first audition. In then end, Garbage was formed (even if Manson still isn't such a fan of the name), and with their self-titled debut came the iconic hit...
Dec 02, 2024•52 min
On the latest episode of The Story Behind the Song , pioneering electronic producer and songwriter Moby joins host Peter Csathy for a deep dive into his groundbreaking album Play and the smash hit single "Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad?" Moby delves into his journey from a young musician experimenting with punk rock to his embracing of electronic music and DJ culture. It all led to Play , Moby's 1999 album that served as his global breakthrough and celebrates its 25th anniversary this year; with ...
Nov 25, 2024•58 min•Season 3Ep. 7
On this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , hear Boy George discuss "Do You Really Want to Hurt Me" and more. One of the most popular and influential bands of the 1980s, Culture Club could be considered the original new wave boyband. They fused the sounds of new wave, pop, and reggae to create a unique sound that was both catchy and stylish. Boy George discusses the hit song's mix of love, loss, and social commentary, and how it resonated with audiences around the world. Additionally, ...
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 2 min
On the latest episode of The Story Behind the Song , host Peter Csathy is joined by The Church bassist and vocalist Steve Kilbey to take a deep dive into the Australian band's beloved hit "Under the Milky Way." Listen to their conversation. Kilbey tracks the origins and production of "Under the Milky Way," which arrived as the lead single of The Church's 1988 debut album, Starfish . Kilbey recounts how the song was written quickly with his then-girlfriend to avoid doing dishes for his mother. De...
Nov 11, 2024•48 min•Season 3Ep. 6
In this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , hear James Mercer of The Shins talk about their indie classic "New Slang," the late bassist Neal Langford, and more. One of the most renowned American indie rock bands, The Shins have carved a lasting legacy with their distinctive blend of folk, pop, and indie rock. Formed in 1996 by frontman James Mercer, a chance inclusion of “New Slang” in the cult classic film Garden State helped to take their indie buzz mainstream just as their breakout ...
Nov 04, 2024•43 min
On the latest episode of The Story Behind the Song , William Reid, who co-founded influential UK duo The Jesus and Mary Chain with his brother Jim Reid, sits with host Peter Csathy to discuss one of the band's most iconic songs: "Just Like Honey." Listen now. After forming a band in the early '80s, brothers William and Jim Reid embarked on a punk rock journey that eventually led to their lauded 1985 debut album, Psychocandy. On this episode of TSBTS , William discusses the band's early days, the...
Oct 28, 2024•39 min•Season 3Ep. 5
In this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , Blue Öyster Cult 's Bruce Dickinson (aka Buck Dharma) chats with host Peter Csathy about the band's iconic "Don't Fear the Reaper." Listen to his insight. Dharma takes listeners through the history of the band, what "Don't Fear the Reaper" was actually about, how a photo inspired Will Ferrell's classic 2000 Saturday Night Live sketch, and the lasting impact of the tune. Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song as Season 3 continues on, a...
Oct 21, 2024•42 min
On the latest episode of The Story Behind the Song , Incubus vocalist Brandon Boyd and lead guitarist Mike Einziger join host Peter Csathy to revisit two of their biggest hits: "Drive" and "Wish You Were Here." Listen to their conversation. Boyd and Einziger, who founded Incubus together in 1991, take a deep dive into the band's formation, their music, and their personal and professional journeys. Together, they trace the trajectory of their career, including how the breakout triggered by "Drive...
Oct 14, 2024•53 min•Season 3Ep. 4
In this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , host Peter Csathy revisits the very first episode of the podcast where he talked with Men At Work frontman Colin Hay to discuss their seminal 80's hit "Down Under." Listen now. Make sure to follow The Story Behind the Song as Season 3 continues on, and rate and review on Apple Podcasts to show your support for the series. Fans of The Story Behind the Song can also check out our new merch! Available now at the Consequence Shop , we have a kill...
Oct 07, 2024•1 hr 9 min
On this week's The Story Behind the Song , Graham Nash tells the story behind Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s “Teach Your Children," "Ohio," and much more. Listen now. Nash, the renowned English-American singer-songwriter, takes a deep dive into his lengthly career. He discusses starting his career in The Hollies to meeting Joni Mitchell, and how an eventful dinner party in Laurel Canyon created Crosby, Stills & Nash and, later, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Reflecting on his politica...
Sep 30, 2024•37 min•Season 3Ep. 3
In this encore episode of The Story Behind the Song , Sheila E. joins host Peter Csathy to discuss how the game-changing song "The Glamorous Life." Listen to her talk about how it changed the course of her career. The accomplished musician talks about working with Prince and trying to outdo each other as they wrote and performed. She also shares insights on a personal selection from her catalog: her recent salsa collab with B. Slade, "Bailar." Throughout the interview, Sheila E. shares personal ...
Sep 23, 2024•52 min
Season 3 of The Story Behind the Song continues with Russian-German DJ and producer Zedd ! Zedd has achieved global fame for his innovative electronic dance music. Known for his distinctive fusion of progressive house, electro house, and dubstep, Zedd's tracks have resonated with audiences worldwide. On this episode of The Story Behind the Song , Zedd shares the full story behind "Clarity" from its origin as a disgarded vocal from "Lost at Sea" written by Matthew Koma to how working with Lady Ga...
Sep 16, 2024•48 min•Season 3Ep. 2
